Danmachi: Strongest Familia

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"Riveria-sama, our supplies are almost depleted, and the supporters are nearly at their carrying limits." Joan, the logistics officer, reported to Riveria just after setting up the tent and preparing to cook.

Despite her usually reserved nature, Joan had proven herself competent in managing resources. Additionally, her proficiency in defensive magic made her a natural choice for leading the team's logistics.

"I understand. We've accomplished the main goal of this expedition," Riveria replied.

While Riveria herself still had energy to spare, most of the team was visibly drained. Only a few LV5 adventurers retained enough stamina, but even they were weary from the near-constant combat and unrelenting vigilance required.

If not for Riveria's careful watch over their surroundings during recent battles, the expedition team might not have escaped without casualties.

"Here's my proposal: you all rest here for a while, and I'll go deeper to investigate alone," she continued.

Now that they had reached this far, Riveria didn't want to leave without at least surveying the area ahead. As a LV7, she could handle solo explorations with relative ease, especially without the need to protect others.

"But, Riveria-sama… going alone?" Joan hesitated, concern visible on her face.

The thought of their leader venturing into unknown depths solo was unsettling.

Corina: "What's there to worry about? For her, it's practically a routine 'exercise.'"

"Then allow me to accompany you," Lan offered. "I could even serve as your supporter."

"Good idea. It's decided then. Joan, will you and Corina manage things here?" Riveria asked.

"Of course. Don't worry—I'll make sure everyone in the team is safe!" Joan assured her with a determined nod.

"Then it's settled. I leave it to you."

Meanwhile, in Orario, remnants of the dark faction were gathering following Erebus's failure.

"Those Asteria familia types are insufferable, always hunting us down," one muttered bitterly.

"Pathetic! They cowered under Erebus's thumb, and now they think they're righteous? A so-called 'goddess of justice'—ridiculous!" another sneered.

"We need to make them remember who they're dealing with."

"But we have to keep our strength intact," a cautious voice added.

"We'll teach these idiotic adventurers a lesson they won't forget! Right, Olivas?"

In a dim alley, their refuge from the city's gaze, Olivas Act, known as the 'White-Haired Phantom', nodded. Though he wasn't thrilled with the faction's recent defeats, the powerful fighters' absence had allowed him to rise as a top-tier LV3.

The status boost felt invigorating, even if it had come through unsavory means.

"Though our strength alone isn't enough," Olivas began, "we could turn to the dungeon itself—use it against them."

"It's like a gift from the dungeon's creatures!" someone remarked eagerly.

"How about the 27th floor? With the timing of the Sol familia expedition, the floor boss should be regenerating."

"Exactly. The more people, the better. We'll create an unforgettable spectacle!" With only a few exchanges, the dark faction members agreed on a plan to cause havoc.

On the 25th, 26th, and 27th floors—areas teeming with monsters and connected through treacherous passageways—they planned to launch a full-scale ambush, targeting Amphisbaena, the floor boss. Their objective was to overwhelm any adventurers in their path.

"Let's move forward with the plan! Prepare for a grand show, everyone!" one shouted, and they raised their fists in unison, already imagining their success.

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Meanwhile, back at the Sol familia's estate, Vex was lounging in her beloved hideout, her bored expression directed at Alfia, who stood nearby.

But her eyes held a hint of resentment. 'I give you shelter, and this is how you repay me?'

"Alright, I have something important to discuss with you—" Alfia began.

"..." Vex rolled her eyes in exasperation, glaring wordlessly at Sol. Clearly, she wasn't happy.

Yet Sol, unperturbed by her reaction, continued. "You see this child? I want you to take her to the dungeon. You like it down there, don't you?"

"When did I ever say I liked the dungeon…" Vex muttered, eyeing Eina, who was standing behind Sol. But even as she scanned the girl up and down, she knew there was no way to refuse now.

Vex wasn't naive; she knew well enough she couldn't escape this task. Though she'd managed to slip away from the expedition, it seemed she couldn't avoid being assigned a trainee.

Wait—was she a newcomer herself?

The thought hit her, and she realized she was about to be saddled with someone new. Still, Vex had explored the dungeon numerous times herself. She recalled when Alfia had moved in next door and shared stories of the dungeon's eerie, deathly atmosphere—an idea that had intrigued her immediately.

In fact, she had once contemplated living there permanently. However, her low level quickly reminded her of reality; the upper floors' constant clamor of monsters and adventurers made her lose interest.

She didn't care for that place anymore…